Prior to the debut of the original X5 in 1999, the idea of a BMW crossover might have seemed like heresy. But here we are, fifteen years removed from the Frank Stephenson-penned design, and the Bavarian automaker has expanded its crossover lineup to include the X1, X3, X4 and X6, and it's showing no sign of slowing down.

We recently reported that BMW is planning on slotting an X2 in at the bottom of the range between the X1 and X3, but now it's being widely reported that it's got an even larger one to put in at the top of its utility line. That, of course, would be the X7, a long-rumored three-row model that would give BMW a large family hauler to challenge the Mercedes-Benz GL.

According to The Wall Street Journal, BMW is expanding its assembly plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina, to accommodate production of the X7 alongside the X3, X4 and X5 that it already builds there for local consumption.

When Autoblog attempted to reach BMW Manufacturing in Spartanburg for comment, representatives declined to discuss the veracity of the report, saying only that announcements are planned for March 28. So until then, it looks like we'll just have to sit and wait.BMW readying Spartanburg expansion for X7 production originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Mar 2014 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.